How to change your Gmail password

Good online security dictates that you should change your password as often as possible. If one of your other online accounts gets caught up in a data breach, the last thing you need is a hacker trying out the password on your Gmail account.

But a startling number of people still don’t know how to change their Gmail password. It’s very easy, and if you haven’t done it in years, then it’s high time you did it now. The process to change your Gmail password is so fast you’ll have it done more quickly than boiling the water for your next cup of coffee.

Read more: 10 best password manager apps for Android

QUICK ANSWER

To change your Gmail password, sign in to the account and go to the security settings. If you scroll down, you'll find the password section. Click on it, and enter your current password to prove it's you. Then you'll be invited to add a new password.

JUMP TO KEY SECTIONS

How to change your Gmail password (Android and iOS)

Although the following screenshots are on iOS, the steps are identical for Android.

Go into your Gmail app and tap your profile photo at the top.

Mark O'Neill / Android Authority

In the next box that appears, choose Manage your Google Account.

Mark O'Neill / Android Authority

On the next screen, scroll along horizontally until you reach the Security tab. You will then see the Password section to enter your new password after entering your old one.

Mark O'Neill / Android Authority

How to change your Gmail password (desktop)

First, make sure you’re signed into the Gmail account you want to change the password for. Then go to the security settings of your Google account. If you scroll down, you will see the password section. This also might be a good time to turn on two-step verification if you already haven’t done so.

Click Password, and you will be asked to enter your current password to prove your identity. Once you’ve done that, you’ll be taken to the new password page. Enter a strong password, and again for confirmation. As the page says, at least eight characters, don’t reuse a password from another site (use a password manager if you have trouble remembering them all), and nothing obvious that someone can work out.

How can I see my Gmail password?

If you use Chrome browser sync, your Gmail password will be stored in the Passwords section. You can click on the Gmail entry and enter your device password to view your Gmail password in plain text.

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